Best open source
GitLab alternative

Find out why OpenProject is the best open source GitLab alternative for project management.

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  • Intuitive and web-based
  • High security and data privacy

More than 20+ Mio downloads of the leading open source project management software

#1 open source project management software

OpenProject is the best open source GitLab alternative for project management

GitLab is a web-based DevOps lifecycle tool that provides a Git repository manager, offering source code management, continuous integration, and continuous deployment pipelines. It allows software development teams to collaborate, manage their projects, track changes to the source code, and automate the software delivery process. While GitLab includes features that can be useful for project management, it is better suited for development projects. If you are looking for a project management tool for general project management, OpenProject is a better alternative.

What does OpenProject offer?

GitLab and OpenProject, both open-source platforms available for on-premises installations and cloud-based usage, cater to distinct needs within project management. GitLab stands out for its focus on development, providing robust tools like version control, code review, and a built-in container registry, making it a popular choice among development teams. It enables collaboration and version control, essential components in modern software development workflows.
In contrast, OpenProject shines in managing projects in a more traditional context. Its strengths lie in indispensable features such as time and cost tracking, a comprehensive team planner, and detailed Gantt charts. These features make OpenProject particularly valuable for teams engaged in classical project frameworks where precise planning, resource management, and progress tracking are pivotal. Whether operating within the dynamic Scrum methodology or handling conventional projects, OpenProject is a more suitable alternative to GitLab, offering a holistic suite of project management tools tailored to diverse project management needs.

OpenProject vs. GitLab

Compare both tools side by side and decide for yourself

Features OpenProject GitLab
Open source software
OpenProject
GitLab
Available on-premises
OpenProject
GitLab
Available in the cloud
OpenProject
GitLab
Document management
OpenProject
GitLab
Product roadmap
OpenProject
GitLab
Time tracking
OpenProject
GitLab
Cost tracking
OpenProject
GitLab
Project planning and scheduling (Gantt charts)
OpenProject
GitLab
Meeting management
OpenProject
GitLab
Team planner
OpenProject
GitLab
Data server in EU/Germany
OpenProject
Headquarters in the EU.
Data stored in EU or, upon request, in Germany.
GitLab
Cloud version is primarily hosted in Google Cloud Platform’s US-East1 region.

Secure Open Source Alternative

Why is OpenProject better than GitLab for project management

If you are especially looking for an open source alternative focusing on project management, take a look at the following advantages and learn why OpenProject is the best choice.

Dedicated project management tools

With its focus on DevOps, GitLab may not be the best fit for everyone. OpenProject provides a comprehensive set of tools specifically tailored for project management, making it a suitable choice for teams focused on project planning and execution.

Wide feature range

OpenProject is continuously developed and improved. Powerful features, such as team planner, action boards, notifications center, custom theme etc. are released constantly and enhance the project management functionalities that OpenProject offers.

No compromises in data protection

If you decide to go with the cloud edition, you can be sure that your data is secure. OpenProject has its headquarters in the EU, is GDPR compliant by default and stores all of the data in the EU.

Not sure yet?

Try OpenProject for free

You can test the OpenProject Enterprise cloud 14 days for free, or you can get a 14 days free trial license key to upgrade your self-hosted Community edition to the Enterprise on-premises – risk-free without cancellation.

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Enterprise add-on

The OpenProject Enterprise add-ons are part of our Enterprise on-premises and cloud plans. With the upgrade to a paid version, you will support the development and maintenance of the open source project.